A peer-to-peer discussion with Jim Ellis, former Dean of the USC Marshall School of Business.

🎙️In Episode 95 of the Deans Counsel Podcast, panelist Jim Ellis takes on the role of guest as Ken Kring and Dave Ikenberry dive into his five decades of leadership experience across private enterprise and higher education. Drawing from his new book, A Journey of Insights: Lessons in Leadership and Legacy (published by Simon & Schuster), Ellis offers practical wisdom on navigating high-stakes administrative roles.

Transitioning from leading Porsche Design U.S. to serving 12 years as Dean of the USC Marshall School of Business, Ellis emphasizes that effective leadership begins with understanding people on a deeper level.

“I tried hard to listen to what was going on—and not just at the surface, but what were some of the underlying issues that people would bring up and what could we solve?” shared Ellis on the importance of active listening and emotional awareness during his transition into academic leadership.

Throughout the episode, Ellis breaks down key strategies for making critical decisions under pressure, managing operations with imperfect information, and fostering strategic philanthropy that aligns donor passions with institutional goals.

He also reflects on the enduring power of community and storytelling in sustaining an organization’s trajectory over time.

“And the story of the students really manifests itself with the alums who just are so proud of their institution that it's come as far as it has and it's going to go farther,” noted Ellis on cultivating institutional pride and legacy.

Panelists Ken Kring and Dave Ikenberry engage in an insightful conversation on the strategies, challenges, and practical wisdom required to cultivate the next generation of academic leaders.

🎧 Listen to the full episode here: 👉🏼 

Photos courtesy of Dr. Ranjan

Learn more about Jim Ellis: www.marshall.usc.edu/personnel/james-george-ellis

Jim's book, A Journey of Insights: Lessons in Leadership and Legacy, is published by Simon & Schuster and available now. www.simonandschuster.com/books/A-Jour…781493096084